October 5, 2026
— Magnus Bäcklund · Source: "Missionary Magnus Bäcklund and the East Turkestan Manuscript Case"
1 Corinthians 9:22-23 To the weak I became weak, that I might win the weak. I have become all things to all people, that by all means I might save some. I do it all for the sake of the gospel, that I may share with them in its blessings.
In the spring of 1897, Magnus Bäcklund and his fellow worker traveled a long distance from Kashgar to Khotan, wanting first to understand how the locals perceived outsiders and then to see what could be done for the sake of the gospel. He diligently studied the Uyghur language, and within just four months in Kashgar, he was able to discuss spiritual matters with the locals in their native tongue. This reflects Paul's heart to "become all things to all people": not waiting for others to accommodate us, but laying aside ourselves to step into their world. Today, am I willing to first listen to and understand the "outsiders" around me?
Lord Jesus, thank You for incarnating and stepping personally into our world. Grant me a humble and teachable heart, that like Bäcklund, I may be willing to learn and listen first, without rushing to preach or using my own culture as the standard. Help me to see the needs and hearts of new immigrants, colleagues, and neighbors, becoming all things to all people. May all that I do be for the sake of the gospel, that more people may share in its blessings with me. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.